F1: Domenicali warns existing F1 circuits

–by Mark Cipolloni–

Formula 1 boss Stefano Domenicali says long-standing venues cannot rely solely on their history and must continue to evolve to remain on the schedule.

Next year’s calendar is expected to have a record-breaking 24 or 25 grands prix.

Speaking during a Liberty Media investor call, Domenicali described the current calendar as “pretty good – I would say in terms of number, 24 races is the right number, and the mix of continents we have today is looking good.”

He explained that “it’s no secret we are still seeing if there’s a chance to go to Africa because it’s the only continent missing.”

Having been asked about balancing historic grands prix with new venues, Domenicali said: “When historic circuits are only looking behind there’s something that’s no good, when the historic circuits have a good foundation to look ahead with a different future that’s beautiful.

“That’s why with the so-called historic grands prix we are focused on understanding what is the view of the future.

“To be arrogant and believe that you have a granted future because you had a race since 100 years, to be very honest, is not enough.

“I think at this moment everyone is understanding that, and we are not playing any games, we are very transparent with them, we are saying if they want to be on the calendar they need to be doing the things we believe is right for them and also for us as F1.

“It’s clear in the last couple of the years the perception of these historical places have changed as they [now] realize the landscape is different.”